Secretary-General saddened by death and destruction in Pakistan earthquake

The United Nations stands ready to assist Pakistan following an earthquake this week which killed more than 300 people.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed condolences to the country's government and people.

The 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck parts of the remote province of Balochistan in south-west Pakistan on Tuesday. At least 328 people died and thousands of homes were damaged, according to media reports.

The Secretary-General said the UN stands ready to lend assistance to efforts to respond to humanitarian needs resulting from the earthquake and to mobilise any international support needed.